Israel Independence Day - Israel Independence Day commemorates the nation’s Declaration of Independence in 1948, which is a very important day in Israel's history.

Israel Independence Day 2024 – May 13, 2024

Israel Independence Day is celebrated on the fifth day of the Hebrew month of Iyar — which usually falls between late April and early May — and this year it will be held from April 25 to 26. Also known as ‘Yom Ha’atzma’ut,’ this holiday memorializes Israeli independence, declared eight hours before the end of the British Mandate of Palestine. The day’s celebrations are however always preceded by ‘Yom Hazikaron,’ which is the day the Israelis remember the soldiers who fought for their nation’s independence. The holiday is observed with extravagant festivities that include family gatherings, fireworks, concerts, barbecues as well as picnics.

History of Israel Independence Day

Israel’s independence was declared on May 14, 1948 — the day when David ben Gurion officially read the Proclamation of the Establishment of the State of Israel. The formation of Israel also meant that the British rule in the country had ended and the citizens were now free. With this, Independence Day was declared a ‘state holiday’ and is celebrated on the 5th of Iyar.The holiday is celebrated with fireworks and military parades, and the President of Israel usually hosts a reception for outstanding soldiers. A major State Ceremony also takes place on the eve of Independence Day. The ceremony, held at Mount Herzl, includes performances, speeches, and the ceremonial lighting of twelve torches. The torches serve a historic purpose and symbolize the 12 tribes of Israel.This day is observed with a bang every year because the people of Israel suffered tremendously before they settled back into a land of their own. They were exiled from their homeland for 2,000 years and faced numerous religious persecutions, including the holocaust in Germany, which killed nearly a third of the world’s Jews, hence Isreal’s Chief Rabbinate’s recommendation, in 1950, that the occasion is given the status of an official Jewish holiday. He also insisted that Hallel — a Jewish prayer — be performed on the day. In 1973, Israeli Chief Rabbi Shlomo Goren added to the custom by introducing a citation of blessings over Hallel.

Israel Independence Day timeline

1948
The End of the British Mandate

The British Mandate of Palestine ends and Isreal is declared an independent nation.

1949
The First Anniversary

The first Independence Day is celebrated in Tel Aviv with a military parade.

1949 — 1960s
The Jews Settle in Their Land

A million Jewish refugees, plus 250,000 holocaust survivors, settle in Isreal.

1967
The Six-Day War

After several months of tension, Israel, joined by Jordan and Syria, launches an attack against Egypt, which leaves Israel in control of East Jerusalem, all of West Bank, Gaza, Golan Heights, and Sinai.

Israel Independence Day FAQs

For how many years has Israel been independent?

The country has been independent for 74 years.

How is Independence Day celebrated in Israel?

The events of the day start with an official torch-lighting ceremony, then a congratulatory speech is delivered by the speaker of Israel’s parliament, which is followed by firework shows, live performances, and dance. The ceremony concludes with the Isreal Prize award ceremony, where selected citizens are recognized for their cultural contribution.

How do you say Happy Independence Day in Israel?

You simply say, “Yom ha’atzmaut sameach!”

How to Observe Israel Independence Day

  1. Attend the official ceremony on Mount Herzl

    If you want to traditionally and patriotically celebrate Israel’s independence, attend the ceremony held every year on Mount Herzl. We guarantee that you’ll be entertained.

  2. Bake cupcakes of the flag

    Love to bake? You can bake cupcakes or brownies with an Israeli flag design to acknowledge independence day.

  3. Read and research more into Israel’s history

    Interested in Israel’s history? Now is the perfect time to learn all about the nation and its people.

5 Interesting Facts About Israel

  1. There are many beaches in Israel

    The region has 137 beaches.

  2. Peanut allergies are not very common

    The babies here are 10 times less likely to be allergic to peanuts.

  3. Eighth most expensive country in the world

    Israel earned the title of the eighth most expensive country to live in, in 2020.

  4. They are huge consumers of doughnuts

    Israelis eat 24 million doughnuts during the eight-day holiday of Hanukkah.

  5. Highest number of museums in the world

    Israel has more than 230 museums.

Why Israel Independence Day is Important

  1. It celebrates patriotism

    We love the day because it celebrates the patriotism and unity of the citizens in staying together as a nation. Let’s face it, for a nation to truly succeed and become developed, it needs to attain independence.

  2. It's fun

    The day is super fun, as it’s usually celebrated with so many festivities across all regions of the country. Activities include parades, parties, grand balls, dinners, and other forms of entertainment.

  3. Reminds us of history

    The day reminds us of the history of Israel. It highlights Israel's journey toward independence.

Israel Independence Day dates

Year Date Day
2022 May 4 Wednesday
2023 April 25 Tuesday
2024 May 13 Monday
2025 May 2 Friday
2026 April 21 Tuesday